Applications for the 2026-2027 Karen Schmeer Film Editing Fellowship will be accepted during our open call period from April 6 to May 17, 2026 via our online form.

Please read our 2026-2027 Application Guidelines document for eligibility requirements and for a full preview of the application. We cannot accept applications that do not meet this year’s eligibility requirements. Our 2026-2027 Frequently Asked Questions document provides more information about the fellowship program, its structure, and its history. We recommend reading both documents before before filling out the application.

The fellowship is a year-long professional development program for assistant, associate and emerging documentary film editors from historically overlooked backgrounds and lived experiences. The program consists of monthly small group meetings with seasoned documentary editor mentors and helps participants navigate professional challenges, deepen their craft, and build lasting careers.

Ideal applicants for our fellowship program are currently working as documentary assistant, associate or early career editors and are looking to work towards building a sustainable career. While there are many talented editors who are also pursuing directing and producing careers, this is a program for people who are committed to documentary editing. Applicants should be curious, open-minded, collaborative, and self-motivated people who are eager to get together with other documentary creatives to talk about the art, ethics and business of editing documentaries.

Accessibility: If you need assistance in navigating the application form, please contact info@karenschmeer.com as soon as possible so that we can support you before the deadline.